Exploring Moon Phases

5th GradeScience40 min

Learning Objective

I can identify and describe the different phases of the moon.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

5 min

Moon Phases Explained (Animations and Timelapse)

Unknown Channel

Guided Notes

8 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • During the New Moon phase, the Moon appears dark because the side facing Earth is not lit by the sun.

  • The Full Moon is the only phase where the Moon is visible for the entire night, rising around sunset.

  • The Moon rises approximately 50 minutes later each day, as it orbits Earth and goes through its phases.

Practice

12 min

8 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

Describe what the moon looks like during the New Moon phase and explain why it appears that way to us on Earth.

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts